What to Do in Naples? The Best Things to Do in Naples!
Although many travelers use Naples as the base for their trip to the various nearby attractions and destinations, the capital of Campania itself is worth visiting. Boasting a long history, Naples houses several museums, historical sites, and castles, while it is known for its rich culinary scene. Are you planning to visit the vibrant Naples? Check out the best things to do in Naples and the nearby regions!
1. The Castles of Naples
Naples features not one, not two, but seven castles! Clearly reflecting its rich historical background, the seven castles scattered around the city are among its most popular sightseeing attractions. Most of them can be explored, while only remnants remain to reveal the presence of others. In detail, the 7 Naples castles are:
- Castel Nuovo or Maschio Angioino: Surrounded by legends, Castel Nuovo stands out thanks to its trapezoidal structure. According to the crocodile legend, prisoners used to disappear from the castle. Nowadays, apart from its eerie vibes, the castle houses the Civic Museum.
- Castel Sant’ Elmo: You’ll enjoy the most breathtaking views of the city from Castel Sant’ Elmo. Moreover, the Novecento Museum is to be found inside its premises, featuring an interesting art collection.
- Castel dell’ Ovo: The “Egg Castle” is the oldest structure in Naples. It lies right opposite Via Partenope and offers amazing views of the Gulf. It is used as a venue for various cultural events.
- Castello di Nisida: It is located on an isle connected to the land via a bridge. Nowadays, it serves as a juvenile hall. Therefore, visitors aren’t allowed to visit the castle or even approach the isle.
- Castello del Carmine: Although only some remains are left revealing its existence (Torre Spinella and some city walls), its military character is still obvious.
- Forte di Vigliena: Unfortunately, only a few remains are left in the location where Forte di Vigliena once stood.
- Castel Capuano: It served as a royal residence as well as a Palace of Justice. Today, Castel Capuano is still used by the government. Hence, it is only partially open to the public, usually during specific days of the year.
2. Palazzo Reale / Royal Palace
The famous Piazza del Plebiscito boasts -among others- the Royal Palace, the palace which the Bourbons hadn’t built yet restored, resulting in being seen as one of the major symbols of the Capetian dynasty. While staying in the city, Palazzo Reale is certainly one of the top things to do in Naples. Indeed, you can visit the royal apartments and explore the exhibits from the 17th to the 19th centuries, opening a window in time and allowing you to experience the almost tangible royal ambiance. From the imposing throne room to the magnificent staircase and from the lavish chapel to the private theater and the relaxing gardens, the Royal Palace should definitely be on your to-do list.
3. The One-of-a-Kind Monastery and Church of Santa Chiara
The Monastery and Church of Santa Chiara are an oasis and a quiet retreat in the middle of the bustling Naples. Although the complex bears a gothic style, the cloister is ornamented with exquisite tile-work that never fails to impress visitors. The benches and the columns are real works of art. The frescoes will also capture your attention. Additionally, a museum facility is also to be found inside the premises.
4. The Impressive Città della Scienza
The biggest scientific museum in Italy not only fascinates science enthusiasts but also appeals to those less inclined to science. Indeed, Città della Scienza is an interactive museum aiming at making scientific info accessible to visitors without relevant background. In that way, scientific facts become highly interesting and engaging. The museum houses Corporea (an exhibition dedicated to the human body), a 3D planetarium, and several laboratories and periodical exhibitions.
5. What to Do in Naples? Shopping in Galleria Umberto I is Always a Good Idea
The 19th-century public shopping gallery resembles the admittedly more popular Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in Milan. As a matter of fact, it is equally impressive, reflecting lavishness and luxury. The glass dome allows natural light to add even more magnificence to the shopping complex. The shopping arcade attracts locals and travelers who want to go on a shopping spree, enjoy a delicious meal or a refreshing drink, or even just admire its adornment.
6. The Archaeological Museum in Naples
The Archaeological Museum in Naples is certainly one of the top things to do in the city. It mainly houses exhibits from Pompeii and Herculaneum. Thus, as they were discovered under layers of lava, they are nearly perfectly preserved. Their excellent condition offers a clear insight into the lifestyle of the ancient cities. Moreover, the museum boasts the impressive Farnese collection. Once you complete the guide through the museum’s collections, you’ll certainly have obtained comprehensive knowledge about the ancient civilizations that were dominant in the area through the years.
7. Discover the City Under the City
In other words, pay a visit to the thrilling underground Naples. The city’s history, a history of more than 2,400 years, will be almost tangible as you traverse the city that lies below the nowadays historic center of Naples (Centro Storico). You’ll pass by ancient Greek remains and Roman relics. Hence, you’ll be given the chance to witness the city’s evolution through the historical eras.
8. Tasting the Food is Definitely One of the Best Things to Do in Naples
Naples is said to be the birthplace of pizza. Thus, not much needs to be said about its culinary scene. Still, if you take part in one of the organized food tours, you’ll find out that Naples offers irresistible tastes and dishes that extend far beyond pizza. In that way, you’ll get to know the local cuisine in depth, tasting pizza fritta, gelato, frittata di pasta and arancini, taralli, sfogliatelle, and, of course, drinking the well-known limoncello. Overall, food tours are the ideal way to explore the city’s attractions while savoring the local flavors.
An easy and hassle-free way to see as many of the city’s sites and attractions as possible is via the Hop-on Hop-off Buses. You can hop on and alight from the sightseeing buses as many times as you want, and you can also take advantage of the audio guides, which are available in many languages.
9. Pompeii is Undoubtedly the Top Area’s Attraction
The city that was utterly destroyed in 79 AD due to the eruption of Vesuvius was brought to light hundreds of years after the destructive event that wiped it off the face of the earth almost intact. Thus, it comes as no surprise that Pompeii is part of the UNESCO World Heritage. It is the city offering a clear vision of the past. You can visit the houses, the forum, the thermal baths, and the Greek theater, all perfectly preserved as if they were used up until a few years before. Moreover, you can also explore Mount Vesuvius and experience a sense of awe as the destruction of Pompeii almost comes to life before your eyes.
10. Explore Other Nearby Destinations
Once exploring Naples, you should set aside some time to visit its famous nearby destinations. Thus, you can rent a car, catch a taxi, or opt for a train, a bus, or a ferry trip to the Amalfi Coast, boasting renowned destinations such as Sorrento, Positano, and Amalfi. On the other hand, you’ll find several ferries and hydrofoils departing from the Port of Naples heading to the islands of Ischia and Capri. A tour around the Amalfi Coast, a visit to the islands of the Bay of Naples, or ideally, a combination of both are definitely recommended to travelers during their stay in Naples.